The One Who Didn't Die

10. Ready, Set

The leaves rustled beneath my feet as I stepped hard into the ground. The crunch of the tar as I put my weight into it was satisfying. I breathed in the air around me, filling my lungs to capacity as I did. Running on the quiet streets of Nashville had always worked to clear my mind but being back on the road made me realize just how much I needed it. I assumed I was getting closer to where I was going, when there were more trees around me. Someone had told me about a great place to see the sun rise and although it was almost an hour run from my house, it was worth it. Having the view of the sun's rays gradually touching the city's sky, as if to embrace it, was worth it. As was the peace and quiet I got from being alone in such an open space at 6 in the morning.

I sipped some of my water before looking at the time on my watch. I had spent a solid 30 minutes just starring out at the mesmerizing scenery before me and had to make my way back home.

I came out of the shower to put on a pair of workout tights, a sports bra and a loose fitting shirt. I took my shoes by the door and headed into the SUV. I figured I would be too tired by the end of the day to drive so I made sure to have Ethan available for the day. I enjoy the comfort of driving myself around but when I do, he tails me.

"Good day Serena." He greeted opening the door for me.

"Hi Ethan." I smiled hopping into the backseat. I was planning to take a nap as we made our way to my first meeting of the day and often when I make a plan, I stick to it or work hard to.

"Nadine!" I screamed upon seeing her. I jumped then ran toward her in slow motion to her. Nadine Voyiatzakis, my road manager, a Chicago native.

"Hello girl!" She said making her way toward me just as slow. I got even more excited as we got closer to each other, locking her in a tight hug. I was the first let go. Then a joyous dance followed, it included a bit of butt bumping, nothing that drew too much attention though, we regard ourselves as dignified women of society and bringing too much attention to our personal activities is unnecessary and uncalled for.

"I have longed for this moment, waiting so patiently to once again see you." I said dramatically, holding my hand to my chest. I had an amazing English accent, specifically that of the Elizabethan era, the women of the 1600's would be proud.

"No longer will you wonder milady, for once again, we are together." She whispered the last part, locking her arm in mine as she led us to the boardroom nearby. "Love the tat by the way." She said as we sat down in our chairs.

"Why thank you." I said batting my lashes as I ran my index and middle fingers over it. Joan walked in, smiled at Nadine and I, closing the door behind her, then sat down.

"The only reason I'm here is to make sure you two stay on track because there is a lot to get through." She said as I put my phone on the table. "So yes, I am babysitting you. Also, I told Evan to join us in 30 minutes to discuss the obvious and I want him to have a say in the stage layout." She announced. Evan is the lead of my band and he takes charge of whatever I do with them by telling me what the band wants and what they're willing to do.

"Thanks Joanie." Nadine chimed. "We are going over -"

"Wait, before you carry on." I interrupted her. "Sorry lover. You have gotten back to the CMA Festival organizers right?" I asked Joan. The weeklong festival is something I usually look forward to but it falls between Scarlet's and my own tour. After being on the road and being busy with the preparations for my next road venture, I wanted to take time to rest to prevent from wearing out by the end of all of it.

"Yes. They sent over two baskets, almost begging you to change your mind and I spent quite a bit on the phone with them." She said with a smile.

"Cool. I just wanted to check up on that." I said nodding my head once. "This was Serena Barnes coming to you live on Interruptions 101. Over to you Nadine." I said impersonating a news anchor. Of course I put my finger to my ear to add the necessary flair, not to mention, the all important morning television smile.